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The Boating Industries Association of Upstate New York is a group that is dedicated to the ways and means of enjoying boating in Central New York. We help both the Federal Government and the State Government spread information about rules and regulations of the day that concern boating or use of the great resources here in New York State, Lake Ontario, the Historic Erie Canal system or the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the Finger Lakes. We look to promote the resources within our membership and protect the waterways that we love. If it’s about boating, it’s about us.
Navigation Law Updates
Life Jacket Wear Requirements
Beginning November 1, 2009, Section 40, Subdivision 1 of the Navigation Law shall be amended by adding new paragraph (e), which reads as follows:
No owner or operator of a pleasure vessel less than twenty-one feet, including rowboats, canoes, and kayaks shall permit its operation, between November first and May first, unless each person on board such vessel is wearing a securely fastened United States Coast Guard approved wearable personal flotation device of an appropriate size when such vessel is underway.
Failure to wear a lifejacket on such vessels will be considered a violation under Section 73-c if the Navigation Law and is punishable by a fine of not less than $25 nor more than $100, applicable to either the operator and/or the owner of the vessel
Why Are Boat Shows Held In The Middle Of WInter?
When looking at the Central New York boat show calendar, you see there are a significant number of boat shows within the first quarter of the year and many might wonder, “Why hold a boat show in the dead of winter?” That question comes up often especially from folks in Central New York – who are usually battling snow and ice and thinking about hot chocolate not hot weather during the winter boat show season.
There are numerous reasons to attend a winter show and all it takes is one or two reasons to motivate you to get your family and/or friends together and head to the show of your choice
- Winter shows are popular because they offer the right timing when purchasing a new boat. Ordering early allows you to select features, colors and options and still ensure delivery by spring launch time. If you wait, you may not find the model and/or options you prefer.
- Marine businesses are motivated to make sales at boat shows. They have ordered their new-model year boats and motors and want to sell inventory during the winter months. Many offer special show pricing and manufacturer incentives. Generally, this is also a great time to make a deal on new previous year models in inventory.
- Be the first to see new and innovative product just introduced. Many new designs or creative new products are launched during winter shows.
- Attending a boat show is the most productive method to physically see hundreds of boats, trailers, motors, boating accessories, marine services, gifts, destinations, etc. in a shorter period of time with the least amount of expense. Think of the time and money you would spend to visit each of the boat dealers and marinas individually. At a boat show you can see it all under one roof.
- If you are considering boating as a recreational option, boat shows offer a tremendous learning experience for new boaters through exhibitor’s products and services.
- Winter boat shows offer a taste of summer during our coldest Syracuse months. Walk into the show and feel the warmth, see the boats, hear the music, experience the special attractions and participate in the promotions. Make the boat show your winter rendezvous to meet up with boating friends and get a mid-winter taste of summer fun to come.
Saving on Fuel
With rising gas prices and the environment top of mind for today's consumer, boaters are using their boats in different ways than in years past. Boaters are considering ways to reduce fuel consumption while on the water, including reducing cruising speed, tuning the engine and taking shorter trips. Unlike driving a car, a boat's engine is often idle or turned off while anchoring, floating or at the dock (all three of which are some of boaters' favorite on-the-water activities). An average size powerboat uses about 20 gallons of gas over an entire weekend. A $1 increase in gas means they will spend just $20 more.
Boaters are beginning to buy engines that better match their boats. If engines have to be run at near or open throttle most of the time, its too small for the boat and its load and fuel consumption and emissions will exceed normal standards.
Quick Tips For Reducing Fuel Usage:
- Slower speeds on the water will reduce fuel usage.
- Proper use of trim tabs reduce drag, especially while accelerating up to planing speeds.
- Minimize the amount of time that you idle at the dock
- Minimize the use of onboard generators.
- Use dock-side electrical power in lieu of generators.
- Have a float plan so you know exactly where you’re going.
- Make sure the hull is clean.
- Don’t under-power your boat. It’s important you have enough motor to handle the load.
- Check your propeller. If your boat is slow "out of the hole" or lacks top-end speed, you might have the wrong propeller.
- A well-tuned engine uses less fuel.
- Use the grade of gasoline specified by the engine manufacturer.
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